WSOP POKER DREAM

I know it's probably silly but my latest "hobby" poker has turned into something of an obsession.  I have literally been playing poker since I can remember.  My grandparents and parents played regularly on Friday nights when I was growing up in upstate New York.  I used to watch and wait until someone had to go to the bathroom and then was allowed to fill in.  I was no more than six years old.  I was always fasinated with it.  Throughout my childhood and adulthood we played for pennies and no one ever allowed me to win.  My dad was a particularly good poker player and taught me well.  He was also responsible for elevating my son's game, so much so that  by the time he went to college he used poker to make his spending money.   I, like most of the country,  really got excited when Chris Moneymaker won 2.5 million dollars and the bracelet at the 2003 (WSOP), World Series of Poker, Main Event after qualifying online through PokerStars in a $39 satellite.  The World Series Main Event went from 839 entrants that year to 2,576 in 2004 to 8,773 in 2006 where the winner, Jamie Gold won over 12 million dollars.  Chris Moneymaker is generally credited with starting the poker revolution which inspired an unprecedented amount of people to learn the game.  Dreams of winning the poker "lotto" inspired young and old alike.  The young used computers to see and play more hands in one year than a professional poker player played in about five years.  The learning curve was amazingly fast.

That was not, however, my learning curve.  My son began teaching me no limit Texas Hold'Em and gave me books to read.  We played at home heads-up or with a group when possible and spent time watching every poker show on television and talking strategies.  We played online, he for money, me with "play chips" just to practice.  Soon I was winning so many play chips I felt comfortable with the structure of the game.  One day my son said "mom its time for you to go to the casino and play in a real game".  I said "oh no, I'm not ready".  He said "yes you are let's go". 

I was so scared that I would do something stupid but found after watching a few hands and folding that I was ready.  I won $50.  I was hooked and haven't looked back.  After conquering the fear of sitting at a table and playing against strangers, my son said "let's go play a tournament" .  It was only $16 to enter and again fate struck and I made the final table beating out about 100+ people and was paid $125.00.  Of course now I thought I was indestructible. 

Think again, the saying goes "Texas Hold'Em takes 10 minutes to learn and a lifetime to master. "   Anyone who plays semi-seriously will tell you that the saying is very true.  It is also one of the most cruel and rewarding games you can play.  It will elevate your blood pressure and make you crazy in ways you never thought was possible.  It teaches you patience, humility, and that there are no friends in poker.  You also have to learn how to manage your bankroll and know what levels to play.

I am a good average amateur player who aspires to continue to move up.  I am having success playing tournament poker and feel comfortable playing with anyone, even professionals.  Just over this last month I have played four tournaments and have won or cashed in each of them.  That's a pretty good record.  I am currently "practicing" for my big upcoming event at the World Series of Poker (Ladies Only Event) which I have played in for the last four years. 

June 11th, noon, my event begins at the Harrahs Rio Casino in Las Vegas.  I have not made the money on previous attempts but am hopeful this is my year.  There will be approximately 1200 entrants and you have to be focused, play good and have a lot of luck. 

My husband, who doesn't play, is my biggest cheerleader and best support.  He stands on the rail and watches for hours pumping his fist and encouraging me for hours on end.  He pays my way in every year for my Christmas gift and gives me extra spending money.  How did I get so lucky?  My son, who has been there when he can, is my coach.  If he is not there, he stands by to take my calls during breaks to give me strategy and encouragement. 

Whatever way it goes this year, I am ready to go, do my best, and have the time of my life.  Never thought at this age I would feel the sense of competition I felt when I was an athlete in high school, some 40 years ago.  My blood is pumping, my mind is working, and I am anticipating great things. 

Keep me in your thoughts.  I will let you know how it goes.